Tag Archives: Demus McDonald

Why were the Native American people starving in Minnesota in the late 1800’s? Who said, “Let them eat grass,” in reference to the starving Native people of this time? Why did the Native men steal eggs out of a farmer’s chicken coop and throw them at the farmer’s house? How did the “Busting Eggs War”…

What are ways that we show respect in our lives? What are ways we show generosity in our lives? What are ways we show bravery in our lives? What are way we show wisdom in our lives? Why are these four values the most important in traditional Dakota culture? What are examples of values that…

Why does the circle in Dakota culture move clockwise? What does the phrase, “Aki apa” mean? How does focusing on aki apa help in difficult times with others? Have I ever had to deal with a bully? If so, how did I handle it? Did anyone ever help me learn how to deal with bullies/difficult…

What is a guardian angel? How is it similar to the spirit Demus speaks about? How does having an education impact a person’s experience in the world? Why was it important to some families that their children attend boarding schools in the past? How do I feel about spirits or angels in my life? How…

What nation represents each direction in Dakota tradition? Why do Dakota people pray to the different directions? Why is a pipe and tobacco often used for prayer? What is prayer to me? Is it important to who I am? Who taught me to pray? What kinds of things do I pray for? Why?

Where is St. Michael’s Boarding School? What years has it been open? Why were people punished for speaking indigenous languages in the boarding schools in the past? Why were students not allowed to pray in their traditional language? What was the goal of the boarding schools in the past? Have I ever attended a school…